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Ascorbyl palmitate, commonly known as Vitamin C ester or Vitamin C palmitate in the food industry is an ester derivative of ascorbic acid. It is produced through an esterification process involving ascorbic acid and palmitic acid, either in the presence of enzyme lipase (immobilized) or with sulphuric acid as a catalyst. With its lipophilic property, ascorbyl palmitate finds extensive applications in various industries, particularly as an antioxidant. Its bioactivity includes protecting red blood cells, facilitating the cellular delivery of ascorbate, and enhancing the bioavailability of iron. In the processing industry, it is widely used as a safe additive and preservative, primarily as an antioxidant for lipids to prevent rancidity in foods containing fats and oils. Although numerous studies have conducted on ascorbic palmitate as an antioxidant, the exploration of its potential application in the food industry remains limited comparted to the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. This review provides an overview of the biological activities and synthesis methods of ascorbyl palmitate, highlighting its advantages over ascorbyl acid and other derivatives. Additionally, it discusses the application of ascorbyl palmitate in the food industry, including encapsulation techniques, benefits, and release aftermath, aiming to serve as a theoretical reference for the food additive industry. [Display omitted] • Ascorbyl palmitate is an ester derivative of ascorbic acid which offers improved stability & low cytotoxicity. • It is widely used in food industry as antioxidant & preservative, especially for preventing rancidity in fats & oils. • Research on its food industry applications lags behind cosmetics & pharmaceuticals, urging further exploration. • Review emphasizes its biological activities, synthesis methods, and encapsulation techniques for food industry use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunosuppressants, such as methotrexate (MTX), can suppress the COVID-19 vaccine response in patients with autoimmune diseases. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the effects of MTX hold following COVID-19 vaccination on vaccine efficacy response. A systematic review and meta-analysis of relevant studies retrieved from Web of Science, SCOPUS, PubMed, and CENTRAL from inception until Oct 1, 2023, was conducted. Covidence was used to screen the eligible articles, and all relevant outcomes data were synthesized using risk ratios (RRs) or standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in meta-analysis models within RevMan 5.4. PROSPERO ID: CRD42024511628. Four studies with a total of 762 patients with autoimmune inflammatory disorders were included. Holding MTX following the COVID-19 vaccination for approximately 2 weeks was associated with significantly higher antibody titer (SMD: 0.70, 95% CI [0.54, 0.87], P < 0.00001). However, the flare rate was significantly higher in the MTX hold group based on CDAI > 10 or DAS28-CRP > 1.2 either after 1st dose (RR: 2.49 with 95% CI [1.39, 4.47], P = 0.002) or 2nd dose (RR: 2.16 with 95% CI [1.37, 3.41], P = 0.0009) and self-reported disease flare (RR: 1.71 with 95% CI [1.35, 2.17], P < 0.00001). Holding MTX for 2 weeks after the COVID-19 vaccination resulted in significantly higher antibody titer but also had a higher disease flare rate, necessitating cautious clinical monitoring during this period. There is still a need to investigate safer MTX hold duration, considering patients' vulnerability to COVID-19, disease status, and demographics while adopting this strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supercapattery, an energy harvesting device that combines key characteristics of supercapacitors and rechargeable batteries, has demonstrated excellent electrochemical performance due to its exceptional cycle stability and high power and energy densities. The hydrothermal synthesis of a CoMgS/ZnO composite was performed in this investigation, which enabled the evaluation of its electrochemical and structural properties. The specific capacity of the cobalt magnesium sulphide (CoMgS) nanocomposite electrode material experienced a substantial increase from 510 to 998 C g−1 at 5 mV s−1 when ZnO was added. This improvement resulted from the addition of ZnO, which increased conductivity and enhanced redox active sites. A supercapattery device has demonstrated a remarkable specific capacity of 398 C g−1 at 2 A g−1. Furthermore, it exhibits an exceptional power density of 2653.88 W kg−1 and a noteworthy energy density of 36.18 Wh kg−1. Even after subjecting the hybrid device to 5000 GCD cycles, it retained an impressive 96.84% of its initial capacity. Besides, the electrode material is also used for the photochemical activity. The findings offer substantial guidance for designing electrodes from nanocomposite-related materials for supercapattery, and they also support the stability and functionality of energy storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: Podiatrists and orthopedists should be vigilant for chronically evolving, hyperalgic soft lumps in the foot with vascular radiological features, prompting early detection of glomus tumor, timely mass removal, providing pain relief and improving patient's quality of life. Glomus tumors refers to a rare group of benign perivascular neoplasms that originate from a neuromyoarterial structure called a glomus body. These tumors are characterized by their painful nature and predominant distribution in the extremities mainly the fingers, the hands and the feet. Nonetheless, the diagnosis is usually made after several years of symptoms experience as the lesions are mostly small, not palpable, and have variable presentations. Radiological workup especially with magnetic resonance imaging is very useful for diagnosing the tumoral process, however, confirmation can only be obtained by histological analysis. The treatment is purely surgical, and it is successful in most cases. Herein, we describe a case of glomus tumor of the foot dorsal side among a middle age male patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aims to use a facile and novel method to remove Congo red (CR) and Methyl Orange (MO) dyes from contaminated water with Maize offal biomass (MOB) and its nanocomposite with magnetic nanoparticles (MOB/MNPs). The MOB and MOB/MNPs were characterized with Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), BET, XRD and point of zero charge (pHPZC). The influence of initial CR and MO levels (20–320 mg/L), adsorbent dosage (1-3 g/L), pH (3-9), co-exiting ions, temperature (25–45 °C) and time (15–180 min) was estimated. The findings demonstrated that MOB/MNPs exhibited excellent adsorption of 114.75 and 29.0 mg/g for CR and MO dyes, respectively while MOB exhibited 81.35 and 23.02 mg/g adsorption for CR and MO dyes, respectively at optimum pH-5, and dose 2 g/L. Initially, there was rapid dye removal which slowed down until equilibrium was reached. The interfering/competing ions in contaminated water and elevated temperature favored the dyes sequestration. The MOB/MNPs exhibited tremendous reusability and stability. The dyes adsorption was spontaneous, and exothermic with enhanced randomness. The adsorption effects were well explained with Freundlich model, pseudo second order and Elovich models. It is concluded that MOB/MNPs showed excellent, eco-friendly, and cost-effective potential to decontaminate the water. Nanocomposite of Maize offal biomass demonstrated higher dyes removal. FTIR, SEM, BET, XRD and pHPZC provided vital evidence for dyes adsorption. MOB/MNPs displayed excellent stability and reusability for dyes adsorption. Groundwater samples exposed a higher dyes removal. Results were validated with equilibrium and kinetic adsorption models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present investigation, spray drying independent operating conditions such as the inlet air temperature (A-IAT 130, 150 and 170 °C), outlet air temperature (B-OAT 60, 70 and 80 °C), needle speed (C-NS 3S, 4S, 5S), maltodextrin concentration (D-MD 10, 15, 20 %), pump speed (E-PS 5, 10, 15 mL/min) and water/grape pomace ratio (F-W/GP ratio 10, 15, 20) were optimized to develop the spray-dried grape pomace powder (SDGPP) with maximum yield. The impact of these conditions on total phenolic contents (TPC), total flavonoid contents (TFC), and antioxidant activity (DPPH· values) of SDGPP samples were analyzed. The independent spray drying factors (IAT, OAT, NS, MD, PS, and W/GP ratio) impart a strong direct effect (p ≤ 0.05) on powder yield, TPC, TFC, and DPPH· values. The interaction effects (A × B, A × C, A × D, A × E, A × F, B × C, B × D, B × E, B × F, C × D, C × E, C × F, D × E, D × F, and E × F) of independent variables were noted non-significant (p ≥ 0.05) for response values. After validation of the model and verification of results, the independents' variables were found in the range of 170 °C (IAT), 80 °C (OAT), 4S (NS), 15 % (MD), 10 mL/min (PS) and 15 (W/GP ratio) for yield (64.7 ± 1.18 %), TPC (7.66 ± 0.53 mg GAE/g), TFC (3.19 ± 0.30 mg CE/g) and DPPH· 140.3 ± 1.59 (100 µL/mL), respectively. The decrease in TPC, TFC, and DPPH· values of SDGPP samples was noted during 60 days of storage at 25 ± 2 °C and 65 ± 5 % RH (p ≤ 0.05) but not greater than unprocessed samples. It could be concluded that the protection of phenolic contents and retention of antioxidant activity of dried powders can be achieved at optimized spray drying conditions for discerning food and byproduct processing industries. [Display omitted] • Spray drying of phenolics rich grape pomace is a promising method for encapsulation. • Interaction for spray drying independent factors was optimized for pomace powder. • The quality of raw and spray-dried grape pomace was evaluated during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dyes and pharmaceuticals are some major water pollutants that cause serious health-related problems to human beings. BiVO4, BiOX, Bi2O3, Bi2S3, and Bi2MoO6 are bismuth-based photocatalysts that have received enormous attraction in photocatalysis due to their photostable, photoactive, chemically inert, and eco-friendly nature, along with their reduced band gaps, which enables them to utilize visible light. The Z-scheme-based photocatalysts offer improved separation of charges along with the retention of high redox ability, which makes them highly efficient for photocatalytic purposes. In this article, recent developments regarding Bi2MoO6-based Z-scheme heterojunctions and their use for the mitigation of dyes and pharmaceuticals have been revisited. We discuss the need for organic-pollutants removal from water and present a brief description of the relationship between morphological and crystal phase properties of Bi2MoO6 with photocatalytic activity. We also provide a brief description of the strategies that can be used to enhance the photocatalytic properties of Bi-based photocatalysts. We include a brief account of the advancement in heterojunctions development with different charge transfer mechanisms and their interconversion and discuss the most recent advances regarding the development of Z-scheme heterojunctions based on Bi2MoO6 for the photodegradation of dyes and pharmaceuticals. Lastly, we present some of the challenges and future directions regarding Z-scheme photocatalysis for further improvement in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of near‐IR absorbing 2,6‐diarylated BF2‐chelated aza‐boron‐dipyrromethenes (aza‐BDPs) derivatives bearing different electron donors (benzene, naphthalene, phenanthrene, phenothiazine and carbazole) were designed and synthesized. The effect of different electron donor substitutions on the photophysical properties was studied by steady‐state UV‐vis absorption and fluorescence spectra, electrochemical, time‐resolved nanosecond transient absorption (ns‐TA) spectroscopy and theoretical computations. The UV‐vis absorption spectra of AzaBDP‐PTZ and AzaBDP‐CAR (λabs=710 nm in toluene) showed a bathochromic absorption profile compared with the reference AzaBDP‐Ph (λabs=685 nm in toluene), indicating the non‐negligible electronic interaction at the ground state between donor and acceptor moieties. Moreover, the fluorescence is almost completely quenched for AzaBDP‐PTZ/AzaBDP‐CAR (fluorescence quantum yield, ΦF=0.2–0.7 % in toluene) as compared with the AzaBDP‐Ph (ΦF=27 % in toluene). However, the apparent intersystem crossing ability of these compounds is poor, based on the singlet oxygen quantum yield (ΦΔ=0.3–1.5 %). The ns‐TA spectral study showed typical Bodipy localized triplet state transient features, short‐lived excited triplet state for AzaBDP‐Ph (τT=53.2 μs) versus significantly long‐lived triplet state for AzaBDP‐CAR (τT=114 μs) was observed under deaerated experimental conditions. These triplet state lifetimes are much longer than that obtained with diiodoAzaBDP (intramolecular heavy atom effect, τT=1.5~7.2 μs). These information are useful for molecular structure design of triplet photosensitizers, for which longer triplet state lifetimes are usually desired. Theoretical computations displayed that the triplet state is mainly localized on the AzaBDP core, moreover, it was found that the HOMO/LUMO energy gap decreased after introducing donor moieties to the skeleton as compared with the reference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Evidence regarding the type and rate of intravenous (IV) fluid administration during labor is still inconclusive and the studies assessing the impact of IV fluids had mixed results. Objectives: To evaluate the effects of IV fluids at an infusion rate of 250 mL/h as compared with 125 mL/h on labor outcomes in nulliparous women. Search Strategy: We searched six databases for relevant studies through a search strategy containing the relevant keywords "IV hydration", "IV fluids", and "labor" from the inception of these databases to May 1, 2023, without any applied restrictions. Selection Criteria: Search results were imported to Covidence for screening of eligible articles for this review. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the impact of IV fluids at 250 mL/h on the outcomes of labor in nulliparous women at term (>37 weeks) as compared with 125 mL/h were included only. Data Collection and Analysis: Data regarding the characteristics of included studies, participant's baseline characteristics, and concerned outcomes were collected in an Excel spreadsheet and all the concerned outcomes were pooled as risk ratios (RR) or mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) in the meta‐analysis models using RevMan 5.4. Main results: Pooled data from 11 RCTs with 1815 patients showed that 250 mL/h infusion rate had a significant reduction in cesarean section rate (RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.56–0.88, P = 0.002), the first stage of labor duration (MD –46.97, 95% CI –81.79 to −12.14, P = 0.008), the second stage of labor duration (MD –2.69, 95% CI –4.34 to −1.05, P = 0.001), prolonged labor incidence (RR 0.72, 95% CI 0.58–0.89, P = 0.003), as compared with 125 mL/h. Also, the vaginal delivery rate (RR 1.07, 95% CI 1.02–1.12, P = 0.009) was higher with a 250 mL/h infusion rate. Conclusion: IV fluids at an infusion rate of 250 mL/h during labor in nulliparous women decreased the cesarean delivery rate, increased the vaginal delivery rate, shortened the first and second‐stage labor duration, decreased the incidence of prolonged labor as compared with 125 mL/h. These findings suggest enhanced labor progression and a lower risk of labor complications with higher infusion rates. However, future research involving a more diverse population and exploring the potential benefits of combining IV infusion rates with other interventions, such as adding dextrose or less restrictive oral intake during labor, is needed. Synopsis: IV fluids at 250 mL/h reduce cesarean section rates and significantly affect the labor outcomes as compared with 125 mL/h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research work, nickel dioxide (NiO2) with a fixed quantity of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) and various concentrations of yttrium (Y) (2, 4 wt%) were synthesized via the coprecipitation method. The main objective is to degrade hazardous dyes such as Rhodamine B (RhB) with synthetic material and to assess antibacterial and catalytic activity with molecular docking analysis of the synthesized Y/g-C3N4-doped NiO2 nanostructures (NSs). A series of characterizations for optical, morphological, structural, and compositional analysis of prepared NSs were monitored to better understand the obtained samples. X-ray diffraction pattern evaluated the hexagonal structure of NiO2. Fourier transform infrared spectra demonstrated the prescence of bending and stretching vibration modes. Upon the incorporation of Y and g-C3N4, no visible transmittance shift was observed. The high resolution transmission electron microscopy micrographs affirmed the formation of agglomerated NiO2 NSs with few rod-like shapes, also assured by EDS elemental configuration. The UV–vis spectra revealed a redshift upon including Y and g-C3N4 into NiO2, leading the band gap energy to decrease from 3.6 to 3.4 eV. The catalytic efficacy of prepared samples was examined against Rhodamine B (RhB) dye in the prescence of reducing agent. In an acidic medium, the highest catalytic degradation rate of 99.85% was achieved by 4% Y/g-C3N4–NiO2, ascribed to increased production of H+ ions absorbed over the NSs surface. Moreover, the antimicrobial efficacy of synthesized NSs was evaluated against Escherichia coli (E.coli) bacteria and was observed as 3.15 mm. In silico docking studies of g-C3N4/NiO2 and Y/g-C3N4–NiO2 NSs for dihydrofolatereductase (DHFR) and dihydropteroate synthase (DHPS) of E.coli postulated inhibition of the enzymes above as a possible mechanism in addition to their microbicidal activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID‐19 brought public health challenges to the public transport system throughout the world. As a result, a range of response measures were implemented to ensure the safety of passengers while maintaining a functioning system. This paper explores the responses of public transport agencies in New Zealand's metropolitan cities (Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington) to the COVID‐19 pandemic by examining their physical and communication measures. We analysed public transport agencies' websites to understand the response measures implemented, including the accessibility of COVID‐19‐related information, and the communication of information via websites and social media platforms. The results show that 13 service responses were implemented across the three public transport agencies, with Auckland implementing the most measures. Seven infrastructural responses were implemented, with Christchurch implementing all seven. Wellington was found to be the public transport agency that used social media the most during the pandemic. The website accessibility findings suggest that the more accessible a public transport agency's website was, the less information was present. The research concludes that all three public transport agencies in New Zealand performed reasonably well and were able to maintain a safe and responsive public transport system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infrared perfect absorption has been widely investigated due to its potential applications in photodetectors, photovoltaics and medical diagnostics. In this report, we demonstrate that at particular infrared frequencies, a simple planar structure made up of graphene-hexagonal Boron Nitride (hBN) hyper-structure is able to nearly perfectly absorb incident light irrespective of its polarization (Transverse-Magnetic TM, or Transverse-Electric TE). By using this interferenceless technique, the hyper-structure achieves nearly zero reflectance at a wide range of angles in a narrow frequency band. We analytically predict the condition of achieving such an important feature of perfect absorption for both TM and TE polarizations. Interestingly, the infrared perfect absorption can be redshifted by increasing the thickness of the hBN layers and blueshifted by increasing the graphene’s chemical potential. Such flexible control of infrared perfect absorption offers a new tool for controlling electromagnetic waves and has potential applications in photodetection and other light control applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study delves into the profound repercussions of the resource curse hypothesis within the Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) nations from 1991 to 2022, examining the intricate interplay among natural resource abundance, energy consumption, and economic development (ED). Methodologically, it employs the cross‐sectionally augmented Dickey–Fuller test to assess stationarity and utilizes the Westerlund cointegration technique to analyze cointegration. Subsequently, the cross‐sectionally augmented autoregressive distributive lag model is deployed to explore the impact of natural resource availability, renewable and non‐renewable energy utilization, and carbon emissions on ED within these countries. The findings reveal a stark reality wherein both carbon emissions and non‐renewable energy consumption wield a consistently positive influence on short‐ and long‐term economic growth across the BRICS economies. Particularly striking is the dominant impact of non‐renewable energy consumption. However, this comes in stark contrast to the adverse effects identified with excessive resource and coal rents, signifying potential economic setbacks arising from rampant natural resource exploitation. Furthermore, the suboptimal utilization of renewable energy resources hints at a detrimental effect on ED. These results transcend the confines of developing nations, underscoring the universality of the resource curse hypothesis, affecting both developing and developed countries. The study illuminates the grave risks inherent in overreliance and overexploitation of natural resources, elucidating heightened competition that severely impedes the ED trajectory of the BRICS countries in both short and long terms. Policymakers must prioritize economic diversification, implement sustainable resource management, and invest in innovative technologies to mitigate the resource curse in BRICS nations, fostering resilience and sustainable economic growth. In conclusion, This study highlights the severe impact of the resource curse in BRICS nations, stressing the imperative for adept resource management to counter the risks linked with overdependence on non‐renewable resources and bolster sustainable economic growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional process monitoring control charts (CCs) focused on sampling methods using fixed sampling intervals ( $ \mathrm {FSI} $ FSI s). The variable sampling intervals ( $ \mathrm {VSI} $ VSI s) scheme is receiving increasing attention, in which the sampling interval ( $ \mathrm {SI} $ SI ) length varies according to the process monitoring statistics. A shorter $ \mathrm {SI} $ SI is considered when the process quality indicates the possibility of an out-of-control (OOC) situation; otherwise, a longer $ \mathrm {SI} $ SI is preferred. The $ \mathrm {VSI} $ VSI multivariate exponentially moving average for compositional data ( $ \mathrm {VSI} $ VSI - $ \mathrm {MEWMA}\,\mathrm {CoDa} $ MEWMA CoDa ) CC based on a coordinate representation using isometric log-ratio ( $ \operatorname {ilr} $ ilr) transformation is proposed in this study. A methodology is proposed to obtain the optimal parameters by considering the zero-state ( $ \mathrm {ZS} $ ZS ) average time to signal ( $ \mathrm {ZATS} $ ZATS ) and the steady-state (SS) average time to signal ( $ \mathrm {SATS} $ SATS ). The statistical performance of the proposed CC is evaluated based on a continuous-time Markov chain ( $ \mathrm {CTMC} $ CTMC ) method for both cases, the $ \mathrm {ZS} $ ZS and the SS using a fixed value of in-control (IC) $ \mathrm {ATS}_0 $ ATS 0 . Simulation results demonstrate that the $ \mathrm {VSI} $ VSI - $ \mathrm {MEWMA}\,\mathrm {CoDa} $ MEWMA CoDa CC has significantly decreased the OOC average time to signal ( $ \mathrm {ATS} $ ATS ) than the $ \mathrm {FSI}\,\mathrm {MEWMA}\,\mathrm {CoDa} $ FSI MEWMA CoDa CC. Moreover, it is found that the number of variables (d) has a negative impact on the $ \mathrm {ATS} $ ATS of the $ \mathrm {VSI} $ VSI - $ \mathrm {MEWMA}\,\mathrm {CoDa} $ MEWMA CoDa CC, and the subgroup size (n) has a mildly positive impact on the $ \mathrm {ATS} $ ATS of the $ \mathrm {VSI} $ VSI - $ \mathrm {MEWMA}\,\mathrm {CoDa} $ MEWMA CoDa CC. At the same time, the $ \mathrm {SATS} $ SATS of the $ \mathrm {VSI} $ VSI - $ \mathrm {MEWMA}\,\mathrm {CoDa} $ MEWMA CoDa CC is less than the $ \mathrm {ZATS} $ ZATS of the $ \mathrm {VSI} $ VSI - $ \mathrm {MEWMA}\,\mathrm {CoDa} $ MEWMA CoDa CC for all the values of n and d. The proposed $ \mathrm {VSI} $ VSI - $ \mathrm {MEWMA}\,\mathrm {CoDa} $ MEWMA CoDa CC under steady-State performs effectively compared to its competitors, such as the $ \mathrm {FSI} $ FSI - $ \mathrm {MEWMA}\,\mathrm {CoDa} $ MEWMA CoDa CC, the $ \mathrm {VSI} $ VSI - $ T^2\,\mathrm {CoDa} $ T 2 CoDa CC and the $ \mathrm {FSI} $ FSI - $ T^2\,\mathrm {CoDa} $ T 2 CoDa CC. An example of an industrial problem from a plant in Europe is also given to study the statistical significance of the $ \mathrm {VSI} $ VSI - $ \mathrm {MEWMA}\,\mathrm {CoDa} $ MEWMA CoDa CC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid-state refrigeration based on elastocaloric materials (eCMs) requires reversibility and repeatability. However, the intrinsic intergranular brittleness of ferromagnetic shape memory alloys (FMSMAs) limits fatigue life and, thus, is the crucial bottleneck for its industrial applications. Significant cyclic stability of elastocaloric effects (eCE) via 53% porosity in Ni-Fe-Ga FMSMA has already been proven. Here, Ni-Fe-Ga foams (single-/hierarchical pores) with high porosity of 64% and 73% via tailoring the material's architecture to optimize the eCE performances are studied. A completely reversible superelastic behavior at room temperature (297 K) is demonstrated in high porosity (64–73%) Ni-Fe-Ga foams with small stress hysteresis, which is greatly conducive to durable fatigue life. Consequentially, hierarchical pore foam with 64% porosity exhibits a maximum reversible ∆Tad of 2.0 K at much lower stress of 45 MPa with a large COPmat of 34. Moreover, it shows stable elastocaloric behavior (ΔTad = 2.0 K) over >300 superelastic cycles with no significant deterioration. The enhanced eCE cyclability can be attributed to the pore hierarchies, which remarkably reduce the grain boundary constraints and/or limit the propagation of cracks to induce multiple stress-induced martensitic transformations (MTs). Therefore, this work paves the way for designing durable fatigue life FMSMAs as promising eCMs by manipulating the material architectures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces two enhanced model order reduction techniques designed for scenarios involving frequency-weighted and frequency-limited-interval Gramians in the continuous-time domain. The primary objective is to address the instability issue identified in existing approaches in the continuous-time domain, as formulated by Enns for frequency-weighted scenarios and Gawronski & Juang for frequency-limited-interval scenarios. Despite numerous solutions proposed in the literature to mitigate this problem, a persistent challenge remains the high approximation error between the original and reduced-order systems. To overcome this limitation, the proposed improved techniques focus on ensuring stability in reduced-order models while simultaneously minimising the approximation error between the original and reduced systems. Furthermore, these enhanced techniques provide a computationally straightforward, a priori error bound formula. Numerical findings underscore the correctness and efficiency of the proposed techniques in reducing the approximation error while maintaining stability, thereby substantiating their efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the intersystem crossing (ISC) mechanism of organic compounds is essential for designing new triplet photosensitizers. Herein, we investigated the ISC mechanism of a heavy atom‐free Bodipy derivative with thiomethyl substitution (S−BDP). A long‐lived triplet state was observed with nanosecond transient absorption spectroscopy with lifetime of 7.5 ms in a polymer film and 178 μs intrinsic lifetime in fluid solution, much longer as compared with what was previously reported (apparent triplet lifetime=15.5 μs). Femtosecond transient absorption studies retrieved an ISC time constant of ∼3 ns. Time‐resolved electron paramagnetic resonance (TREPR) indicated a special triplet electron spin polarization phase (ESP) pattern (a, e, a, e, a, e) for S−BDP, different from the ESP (e, e, e, a, a, a) typical for the spin‐orbital coupling (SOC) mechanism. This indicates that the electron spin selectivity of the ISC of S−BDP is different from that of the normal SOC effect in iodo‐Bodipy. Simulations of the TREPR spectra give a zero‐field‐splitting D parameter of −2257 MHz, much smaller as compared to the reference 2,6‐diiodo‐Bodipy (D=−4380 MHz). The computed SOC matrix elements (0.28–1.59 cm−1) and energy gaps for the S1/Tn states suggest that the energy matching between the S1 and T2/T3 states (supported by the largest kISC ∼109 s−1) enhances the ISC for this compound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This comprehensive study explores the nuanced relationship between financial development and its determinants within the G7 nations, spanning the years 1990 to 2020. Motivated by the need to understand long‐term financial trends, we meticulously analyze key variables including total natural resource rent, Environmental Policy Stringency Index, total energy consumption, green gross domestic product (GDP), and foreign direct investment inflow. Employing rigorous diagnostic tests to ensure the robustness of our findings, advanced methodologies such as “Method of Moment Quantile Regression,” along with simulations of “Bootstrap Quantile Regression," “Panel Corrected Standard Errors,” and “Feasible Generalized Least Squares” regressions uncover the statistical significance and practical implications of our results. Our pivotal findings carry substantial implications for both individual G7 member states and the collective group. Highlighting a positive correlation between stringent environmental policies, measured by the Environmental Policy Stringency Index, and financial development, our study emphasizes the imperative for these nations to align economic and environmental policies. Striking a harmonious balance between resource management and sustainable environmental regulations not only fosters financial growth but also addresses global environmental concerns. Furthermore, the adverse impact of total energy consumption on financial development underscores the urgent need for G7 nations to prioritize energy efficiency and transition to sustainable sources, aligning with the global trend towards eco‐friendly practices. In response to these critical findings, we propose actionable policy measures. To align with the growing climate crisis and standardize green finance practices, we advocate for the establishment of a jointly funded Climate Resilience and Adaptation Fund and a unified Green Bond Framework within the G7. These measures not only enhance climate resilience and streamline sustainable investments but also demonstrate the G7's collective commitment to a greener and more prosperous future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanomaterials synergy in a binary system offers a great opportunity for the development of high-performance electrode material for Lithium-ion batteries (LiBs). So far SnS/Ni3S4 binary sulfides are scarcely investigated as an anode for LIBs. In this work, to intrinsically enhance the kinetics of SnS, SnS/Ni3S4 (SN-x) binary sulfides were synthesized by introducing nickel sulfide with different stoichiometric ratios (0.5, 1, 2, and 3). The developed electrode (SN-2) delivers an initial discharge capacity of 2567 mA h g−1 and a high reversible capacity of 360 mA h g−1 at a current rate of 300 mA g−1 after 180 cycles with a Coulombic efficiency of over 97%. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and density functional theory (DFT) confirm the improved kinetics of the SN-2 electrode as compared to other electrodes. The significantly enhanced performance of the SN-2 electrode can be attributed to the addition of an optimized amount of Ni3S4, synergistic effects between SnS and Ni3S4, generation of more active sites and structural integrity. This work suggests that the prepared SnS/Ni3S4 binary sulfides exhibit great promise for the development of efficient energy storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Purple blotch disease is a devastating disease, resulting in significant yield losses in onion. Application of synthetic fungicides is a rapid approach for the control of this disease, but extensive use of synthetic fungicides results in resistance development in pathogen. Thus, it is mandatory to explore alternative approaches to overcome the fungicide resistance challenges. The present study focused on a sustainable biocontrolling approach by using biocontrol yeast. The objective was to develop a management strategy that offers an environmentally acceptable alternative to commonly used fungicides. Results: A total of six pathogenic isolates were obtained from the infected onion leaves, out of all tested isolates, OP-4 recorded as highly virulent with disease incidence (75.2%). Filobasidium wieringae and Pichia kluyveri drastically reduced the in vitro mycelial growth of Alternaria porri (14 and 21 mm, respectively). In the greenhouse experiment, plant inoculated with P. kluyveri suspension was the most effective, resulting in considerable reduction (77.1%) in disease severity, before two days of pathogen inoculation. However, F. wieringae showed a considerable reduction (84.5%) in disease severity when applied in combination with P. kluyveri two days post-inoculation. Conclusions: These findings highlighted the strong biocontrol potential of P. kluyveri and F. wieringae in managing the purple blotch disease of onion and can reduce the reliance on synthetic fungicides. Further research and field trials should be conducted to optimize the application methods and evaluate the long-term effectiveness of these bioagents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we compute the irregularity measures of generalized Sierpiński graphs and obtain some bounds on these irregularities. Moreover, we discuss some bounds on connectivity indices for generalized Sierpiński graphs of any arbitrary graph H along with classification of the extremal graphs used to attain them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The focal point of this paper is to ascertain the precise value of edge irregularity strength of various finite, simple, undirected and captivating graphs, including the splitting graph, shadow graph, jewel graph, jellyfish graph and m copies of 4-pan graph. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability of laser pulse was tested for controlled ablation of the copper alloy (CuCrZr) and nanometer-thick impurity layer on the rear surface of a glass window. The target surface was moved across the focus point (FP) to vary the distance from the FP within the depth-of-focus (DOF) of the focusing lens. An Nd:YAG laser was used at its fundamental wavelength of 1064 nm in this experiment. The controlled ablation was performed to remove the impurity from the rear surface of a glass window that was taken from the H-port of the EAST tokamak. The morphology of the laser-produced craters was measured using the 3D laser scanning confocal microscope and scanning electron microscope. The depth and diameter of the craters varied according to the laser energy which focused on the unit area. The spectral intensity increases as the distance from the FP decreases. The threshold fluence values for ablation, ignition of the plasma, and spectral emission were investigated. The laser pulse energy focused before and after the FP resulted in different ablation behaviors, crater morphologies, and spectral intensity. The precise removal of impurities from the rear surface was performed at − 2 mm from the FP. The laser ablation with variable fluence can further improve the selective ablation of impurity deposition to investigate the surface of the plasma-facing components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapidly increase in the world's population has resulted in a corresponding increase in the energy demand. This demand is largely being met by fossil fuels for power generation, industrial fuel and transportation. However, due to the limited availability of fossil fuels and their negative effects on the environment. The use of fossil fuels results in by-products such as carbon, nitrogen and sulfur oxides which have negative impacts on the environment. Therefore. There is an urgent need to develop alternative greener energy sources that are sustainable and have minimal environmental impacts. Hydrogen is one such alternative energy source of attention. Harvesting sunlight through the use of solar panels is already being employed at domestic and commercial levels. Photocatalytic water splitting, which aims to produce hydrogen by utilizing unlimited sources including water and sunlight, is another potential process for alternative energy production. The conversion of water into hydrogen and oxygen through sunlight is an innovative process that directly converts sunlight into chemical energy in the form of hydrogen and oxygen via photocatalytic water splitting. Numerous photocatalytic materials are available for photocatalytic hydrogen production, but bismuth-based materials are the most suitable as they are non-toxic, economical, opto-electronically active, have suitable band positions for photocatalysis, and exhibit excellent photo-stability. To provide summary of latest research in the field of photocatalytic water splitting, a comprehensive review is favorable to suggest future research directions aimed at discovering solutions to current challenges. This review emphasizes the need for alternative energy sources and the competitiveness of photocatalytic water splitting for hydrogen production. The mechanism and thermodynamics of the photocatalytic water splitting have been discussed, along with the properties of an ideal photocatalyst for photocatalytic hydrogen production with a special focus on the bismuth-based photocatalysts. The optimization of synthetic and photocatalytic processes is crucial for commercial use with much improved hydrogen production in terms of cost and quantity without harming environment at any stage. Furthermore, current challenges and future perspectives have been presented for upcoming research in this domain. • Competitiveness of bismuth-based photocatalysts for hydrogen production. • Mechanism and thermodynamics of the photocatalytic water splitting. • Properties of an ideal photocatalyst for water splitting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to limited research on the effectiveness and safety of intravenous (IV) fluids administered during labor, there are no guidelines available. Thus, this meta-analysis aims to evaluate efficacy of IV Ringer's lactate during labor as compared to usual care. Six databases were searched for the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effects of IV Ringer's lactate at 125 mL/h or 250 mL/hr during labor in nulliparous women at term as compared to usual care, and the search results were imported to Covidence for screening of the articles. All the concerned outcomes were pooled as risk ratios (RR) or mean difference (MD) with 95% CI in the meta-analysis models using RevMan 5.4. Pooled data from 7 RCTs with 967 nulliparous women showed that the active stage of labor duration (MD −32.16 with 95% CI [40.43 to −23.90], p < 0.00001), need of oxytocin augmentation (RR 0.72 with 95% CI [0.54 to 0.96], p = 0.03) and incidence of prolonged labor (RR 0.57 with 95% CI [0.34 to 0.95], p = 0.03) was significantly lower with IV Ringer's lactate. However, the total duration of labor (p = 0.23), duration of second stage of labor (p = 0.31) and cesarean section rate (p = 0.070) did not differ between the two groups. The test for subgroup analysis based on infusion rate was significant (p = 0.01) for the active stage of labor. IV Ringer's lactate reduced the duration of active labor, the need for oxytocin augmentation and the prolonged labor incidence. However, it did not differ in effect on immediate neonatal health but was found to have more potential for reducing maternal vomiting as compared to usual care with unrestricted oral intake. Further research is needed to explore its effects in the larger and more diverse populations and with different IV fluids for evidence-based guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are multi-dimensional network of crystalline material held together by bonding of metal atoms and organic ligands. Owing to unique structural, chemical, and physical properties, MOFs has been used for enzyme immobilization to be employed in different catalytic process, including catalytic degradation of antibiotics. Immobilization process other than providing large surface provides enzyme with enhanced stability, catalytic activity, reusability, and selectivity. There are various approaches of enzyme immobilization over MOFs including physical adsorption, chemical bonding, diffusion and in situ encapsulation. In situ encapsulation is one the best approach that provides extra stability from unfolding and denaturation in harsh industrial conditions. Presence of antibiotic in environment is highly damaging for human in particular and ecosystem in general. Different methods such as ozonation, oxidation, chlorination and catalysis are available for degradation or removal of antibiotics from environment, however these are associated with several issues. Contrary to these, enzyme immobilized MOFs are novel system to be used in catalytic degradation of antibiotics. Enzyme@MOFs are more stable, reusable and more efficient owing to additional support of MOFs to natural enzymes in well-established process of photocatalysis for degradation of antibiotics aimed at environmental remediation. Prime focus of this review is to present catalytic degradation of antibiotics by enzyme@MOFs while outlining their synthetics approaches, characterization, and mechanism of degradation. Furthermore, this review highlights the significance of enzyme@MOFs system for antibiotics degradation in particular and environmental remediation in general. Current challenges and future perspective of research in this field are also outlined along with concluding comments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a method for solving the hidden subgroup problem in nilpotent groups. The main idea is iteratively transforming the hidden subgroup to its images in the quotient groups by the members of a central series, eventually to its image in the commutative quotient of the original group, and then using an abelian hidden subgroup algorithm to determine this image. Knowing this image allows one to descend to a proper subgroup unless the hidden subgroup is the full group. The transformation relies on finding zero sum subsequences of sufficiently large sequences of vectors over finite prime fields. We present a new deterministic polynomial time algorithm for the latter problem in the case when the size of the field is constant. The consequence is a polynomial time exact quantum algorithm for the hidden subgroup problem in nilpotent groups having constant nilpotency class and whose order only have prime factors also bounded by a constant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mononuclear metal complexes of 1-cyclopropyl-7-[(S,S)-2,8-diazabicyclo[4.3.0]non-8-yl]-6-fluoro-8-methoxy-1,4-dihydro-4-oxo-3-quinoline carboxylic acid (moxifloxacin) with commonly used antacids metal ions have been prepared and studied by physicochemical, elemental analysis and spectroscopic techniques (IR and 1H NMR spectroscopy). In all synthesized metal complexes, moxifloxacin acted as a bidentate deprotonated ligand that bound to the metal through the carbonyl oxygen and one carboxylate oxygen atoms. The complexes were screened against 11 Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms and also screened against 6 fungi, where moxifloxacin was used as standard. It has been concluded that some of these complexes showed in vitro growth inhibitory activities comparable with or higher than the parent drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we determine the maximum general Randić index (a general symmetric function of vertex degrees) for η 0 ≤ η < 0 among all n-vertex unicyclic graphs with a fixed maximum degree Δ and the maximum and the second maximum general Randić index for η 0 ≤ η < 0 among all n-vertex unicyclic graphs, where η 0 ≈ − 0.21 . We establish sharp inequalities and identify the graphs attaining the inequalities. Thereby, extremal graphs are obtained for the general Randić index, and certain open gaps in the theory of extremal unicyclic graphs are filled (some open problems are provided). We use computational software to calculate the Randić index for the chemical trees up to order 7 and use the statistical (linear regression) analysis to discuss the various applications of the Randić index with the physical properties of drugs on the said chemical trees. We show that the Randić index is better correlated with the heat of vaporization for these alkanes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This is a retrospective cohort analysis of diabetes and its associated factors from Electronic Medical Record (EMR) of 2020-2022 of Indus Hospital Health Network (IHHN), Korangi campus Karachi. Methods: Retrospective cohort study was conducted at Indus Hospital & Health Network (IHHN), Korangi Karachi. Out-patient records of adult patients of 2020-2022 were extracted from EMR of IHHN in March 2023. Descriptive statistics were presented as median (IQR) and frequency and percentage. Chi-square test determined association of risk-factors with diabetes and Wilcoxon-sign-rank test compared change in HbA1C from baseline. Results: Data of 460,799 adult patients were extracted and analyzed. Median age of patients was 38.71 (27.87-52) years. Female preponderance was observed in our study. Out of 460,799, HbA1C was seen in 42,638 (9.25%) patients. Among these 29,596 (69.4%) had a HbA1C = 6.5% while 13,042 (30.6%) had a HbA1C in the pre-diabetes range. Significant association was found between age, baseline creatinine, LDL and diabetes with no association depicted between gender, BMI, blood pressure, triglycerides, HDL and diabetes status. Patients in general had higher HbA1C at baseline as compared to last visit (p-value<0.001). Conclusion: High blood pressure, obesity, increased creatinine, micro albuminurea, high LDL and Triglycerides were important risk factors for diabetes. This study reports a snap shot of the status of diabetes and associated risk-factors in the Pakistani population. This was the first time that a large data was extracted and analyzed from a healthcare institution in Pakistan, which would guide physicians and public health practitioners to take evidence-based decisions for prevention and management of diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aims to share our experience of laparoscopic exploration for infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. Material and methods: This retrospective study was conducted in the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar from June 2017 to July 2020. This study includes all patients whose diagnosis of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS) was confirmed through ultrasound parameters and laparoscopic pyloromyotomy was performed. Data was retrieved from the laparoscopic surgery record. Retrieved data was tabulated and fed in SPSS 25 for analysis. Results: This study included 42 patients with a mean age of 50.28 ±18.5days and a mean weight of 3.35±0.76 kg. Male patients were 57 % while females were 43 %. The mean time to resuscitate the patient pre-operatively was 34.6±15.4 hours while the mean postoperative hospital stay was 45±12.47 hours. The mean operative time was 31.6±10.4 min. Operative time decreased with time depicting improvement in our learning curve (p=0.004). The method of working instrument placement had no impact on operative time (p=0.337). Meantime to full oral feed was 9.7±5.1 hours. We did not encounter mucosal perforation or incomplete myotomy. No surgery was converted to open. Conclusion: Laparoscopic pyloromyotomy is a safe and effective method of treatment for infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work reports the influence of antimony substitution in a cerium molybdate lattice for improved dielectric and photocatalytic properties. For this purpose, a series of Ce2−xSbx(MoO4)3 (x = 0.00, 0.01, 0.03, 0.05, 0.07, and 0.09) were synthesized through a co-precipitation route. The as-synthesized materials were characterized for their optical properties, functional groups, chemical oxidation states, structural phases, surface properties, and dielectric characteristics using UV–Vis spectroscopy (UV–Vis), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopies, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, and impedance spectroscopy, respectively. UV–Vis study showed a prominent red shift of absorption maxima and a continuous decrease in band gap (3.35 eV to 2.79 eV) by increasing the dopant concentration. The presence of Ce–O and Mo–O–Mo bonds, detected via FTIR and Raman spectroscopies, are confirmed, indicating the successful synthesis of the desired material. The monoclinic phase was dominant in all materials, and the crystallite size was decreased from 40.29 nm to 29.09 nm by increasing the Sb content. A significant increase in the dielectric constant (ε′ = 2.856 × 108, 20 Hz) and a decrease in the loss tan (tanδ = 1.647, 20 Hz) were exhibited as functions of the increasing Sb concentration. Furthermore, the photocatalytic efficiency of pristine cerium molybdate was also increased by 1.24 times against diclofenac potassium by incorporating Sb (x = 0.09) in the cerium molybdate. The photocatalytic efficiency of 85.8% was achieved within 180 min of UV light exposure at optimized conditions. The photocatalytic reaction followed pseudo-first-order kinetics with an apparent rate constant of 0.0105 min−1, and the photocatalyst was recyclable with good photocatalytic activity even after five successive runs. Overall, the as-synthesized Sb-doped cerium molybdate material has proven to be a promising candidate for charge storage devices and a sustainable photocatalyst for wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the era of globalization, financial development plays a key role in socioeconomic and environmental development. However, its adverse consequences on human life, environmental hazards, and high energy consumption cannot be ignored. Thus, this study investigates the non-linear relationship between globalization, financial development, and energy consumption for BRICS economies. In doing so, we have applied second-generation tests to identify cross-sectional dependence in the data. Cross-sectional augmented Dickey-Fuller (CADF) and Cross-sectional Im-Pesaran Shin (CIPS) have been performed to find the stationary level of variables. The long-term equilibrium link between the investigated variables has been established in continuance using the Westerlund Cointegration test. The Dynamic Seemingly Unrelated Regression (DSUR) indicates that U-shaped relationships exist for financial development and globalization with energy consumption. Conversely, there is an inverted U-shaped relationship exist between economic growth and energy consumption in BRICS. The Dumitrescu-Hurlin panel causality test findings show that a unidirectional link runs from energy consumption to financial development, economic growth to energy consumption, and globalization towards energy usage. Important policy implications have also been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edge irregular mapping or vertex mapping h : V (G) −→ {1, 2, 3, ..., s} is a mapping of vertices in such a way that all edges have distinct weights. We evaluate weight of any edge by using equation wth(cd) = h(c) + h(d), ∀c, d ∈ V (G) and ∀cd ∈ E(G). Edge irregularity strength denoted by es(G) is a minimum positive integer used to label vertices to form edge irregular labeling. In this paper, we find exact value of edge irregularity strength of linear phenylene graph PHn, Bn graph and different families of snake graph. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: The discovery of new antifungals and antimicrobials to overcome resistance has always been a crucial topic for sustainable world health. Since sulfur-containing triazole heterocycles derivatives have shown greater interest due to their valuable applications, we reported herein, the synthesis of some mercaptotriazole derivatives to discover underlying structural requirements for antimicrobial and antifungal activity. Methods: Firstly, the benzoic acid hydrazide was synthesized. Then it was reacted with carbon disulfide in the solution of alkali ethanol to give potassium dithiocarbazinate salt. Then the basic nucleus 4-amino-5-phenyl-1-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol was prepared by cyclization of potassium salt with hydrazine hydrate. After that, a condensation reaction with different aldehydes was conducted to synthesize Schiff bases, which were cyclized by treating with thioglycolic acid to prepare desired compounds. Results: All the synthesized compounds were confirmed by their melting point, FTIR, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR spectra, elemental analysis was determined for their antimicrobial activity by using a simple susceptibility screening test with agar-well diffusion. Few compounds showed promising activity against bacteria and yeast-like fungi. Conclusion: 4-amino-5-phenyl-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol derivatives proved promising antimicrobial activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kaempferol is a flavonoid present in many eatable plants. Researchers discovered a link between consuming foods high in kaempferol and lowering the threat for acquiring many diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity and cancer. Kaempferol can inhibit AHR transcription, modulate ERK signalling pathway and NF-κB pathways, block MAPK and AP1 signalling pathways and perform more anticancer roles. Kaempferol also has the ability to act against diabetes via suppressed phosphorylation of (IKK) IkB kinase, (IRS-1) insulin receptor substrate-1 and (IKK) IkB kinase through the hepatic IKK/NF-B signalling pathways and significantly enhanced insulin secretion and synthesis. Kaempferol protects cardiomyocytes from anoxia/reoxygenation (A/R)-induced damage by lowering LDH release, improving cell survival, reducing A/R-induced ROS formation, and release of cytochrome c. This knowledge may aid in understanding health advantages of medicinal plants that contain kaempferol and may lead to the development of the flavonoid as a potential agents for disease aversion and therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the world and one of the major public health problems. Curcumin has anticancer activity including inducing apoptosis and inhibiting proliferation and invasion of tumours by suppressing a variety of cellular signalling pathways. It also possesses anti-tumour activity on different human cancers such as breast cancer, lung cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, prostate cancer, and brain tumours. In vitro and in vivo trails, curcumin inhibits tumour development and metastasis by inhibiting many pathways that regulate signalling in malignant cells, including Ras, p53, extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), Wnt-protein kinase B (Akt), MAPKs, and PI3K. Curcumin can also inhibit IKK, EGFR, -catenin, cyclin D1, tumour necrosis factor (TNF), and anti-apoptotic genes such as Bcl-X and Bcl-2 along with downregulating nuclear transcription factors like NF-κB, which reduces the formation of pro-inflammatory cytokines like chemokines, TNF-, Interleukins and IL-1, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-12. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Historically, humans have been infected by mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue fever and malaria fever. There is an urgent need for comprehensive methods in the prevention, control, and awareness of the hazards posed by dengue and malaria fever to public health. We propose a new mathematical model for dengue and malaria co-infection with the aim of comprehending disease dynamics better and developing more efficient control strategies in light of the threat posed to public health by co-infection. The proposed mathematical model comprises four time-dependent vector population classes ( S E I d I m ) and seven host population classes ( S E I d I m I d m T R ). First, we show that the proposed model is well defined by proving that it is bounded and positive in a feasible region. We further identify the equilibrium states of the model, including disease-free and endemic equilibrium points, where we perform stability analysis at equilibrium points. Then, we determine the reproduction number R 0 to measure the level of disease containment. We perform a sensitivity analysis of the model's parameters to identify the most critical ones for potential control strategies. We also prove that the proposed model is well posed. Finally, the article examines three distinct co-infection control measures, including spraying or killing vectors, taking precautions for one's own safety, and reducing the infectious contact between the host and vector populations. The control analysis of the proposed model reveals that all control parameters are effective in disease control. However, self-precaution is the most effective and accessible method, and the reduction of the vector population through spraying is the second most effective strategy to implement. Disease eradication is attainable as the vector population decreases. The effectiveness of the implemented strategies is also illustrated with the help of graphs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In graph theory, a topological index is a numerical value that is in good correlation with certain physical properties of a molecule. It serves as an indicator of how a chemical structure behaves. The Shannon's entropy describes a comparable loss of data in information transmission networks. It has found use in the field of information theory. Inspired by the concept of Shannon's entropy, we have calculated some topological descriptors for fractal and Cayley-type dendrimer trees. We also find the entropy that is predicted by these indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic that originated in Wuhan, China in December 2019 results in respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. Elderly patients are at high risk. Preventive measures like avoiding contact with COVID-19 patients and wearing N95 masks can contribute to reducing the risk of infection, but vaccination remains crucial. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted among the elderly population (= 50 years) in Pakistan. A 16-items questionnaire explored the socio-demographic profile of the participants, including questions about their age, gender, etc. The other sections included questions regarding vaccine registration, vaccine acceptance, and hesitation and fears towards vaccines. The items were developed to collect the data on the basis of the Likert scale. Results: There was a total of 3059 respondents. The majority of the participants (n = 2726, 89.1%) were aged below 70 years, while 10.9% (n = 333) were aged above 70 years. Many participants (47.1%) expressed their concerns about the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccine booster dose. Despite their willingness to vaccinate with the cOVID-19 vaccine, 24.7% female participants expressed concerns related to the safety of the vaccine. Among all the respondents, 23.1% participants had no concerns about the cOVID-19 vaccine booster dose. The study identified a reluctance and lack of confidence in the efficiency of the COVID-19 booster dose. Conclusions: The alarming situation is rigidity towards vaccination among the elderly population. Necessary measures must be taken by the health department of Pakistan to manage this reluctant behavior and increase confidence on the efficiency of the COVID-19 booster dose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of the study is to examine the influence of the nonlinear thermal radiation on the flow of the hydromagnetic hybrid nanoliquid across an oscillating stretched curved surface. In addition, the impacts of velocity and thermal slip conditions are also considered. Curvilinear coordinate scheme is adopted to construct the mathematical form of the flow model in terms of nonlinear partial differential equations. Analytical solution of the formulated flow equations in the form of convergent series solution is accomplished by employing the Homotopy analysis technique (HAM). A comprehensive inspection of the consequences of different flow parameters, such as the hybrid nanoparticles parameter, magnetic parameter, non‐dimensional velocity slip parameter, dimensionless radius of curvature, dimensionless thermal slip parameter, Prandtl number, dimensionless temperature parameter on the flow, pressure, surface drag force, temperature and on the local Nusselt number is conducted out through graphs and tables and discussed in detail. It is noticed that the amplitude of the liquid velocity is a reducing function of the solid volume fraction parameter for copper and the velocity slip parameter, whereas it is enhanced with increasing solid volume fraction parameter for alumina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detecting cyber intrusions in network traffic is a tough task for cybersecurity. Current methods struggle with the complexity of understanding patterns in network data. To solve this, we present the Hybrid Deep Learning Intrusion Detection Model (HD-IDM), a new way that combines GRU and LSTM classifiers. GRU is good at catching quick patterns, while LSTM handles long-term ones. HD-IDM blends these models using weighted averaging, boosting accuracy, especially with complex patterns. We tested HD-IDM on four datasets: CSE-CIC-IDS2017, CSE-CIC-IDS2018, NSL KDD, and CIC-DDoS2019. The HD-IDM classifier achieved remarkable performance metrics on all datasets. It attains an outstanding accuracy of 99.91%, showcasing its consistent precision across the dataset. With an impressive precision of 99.62%, it excels in accurately categorizing positive cases, crucial for minimizing false positives. Additionally, maintaining a high recall of 99.43%, it effectively identifies the majority of actual positive cases while minimizing false negatives. The F1-score of 99.52% emphasizes its robustness, making it the top choice for classification tasks requiring precision and reliability. It is particularly good at ROC and precision/recall curves, discriminating normal and harmful network activities. While HD-IDM is promising, it has limits. It needs labeled data and may struggle with new intrusion methods. Future work should find ways to handle unlabeled data and adapt to emerging threats. Also, making HD-IDM work faster for real-time use and dealing with scalability challenges is key for its broader use in changing network environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we derive new optical soliton solutions to (2 + 1)‐dimensional Schrödinger's hyperbolic equation using extended direct algebraic method and new extended hyperbolic function method. New acquired solutions have the form of bright, dark, combined dark‐bright, singular, and combined bright‐singular solitons solutions. These solutions reveal that our techniques are straightforward and dynamic. The solutions are also demonstrated through 3‐d and 2‐d plots to make clear the physical structures for such kind of model. The obtained results illustrate the power of the present method to determine soliton solution of nonlinear evolution equations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a multi-channel optical hybrid filter which can regulate into a single-channel narrowband filter (SCNBF), hybrid band filter (HBF), and the dual-channel narrow band filter (DCNBF) when the input is a broad signal. The multi-channel optical hybrid filter results from the multiple evolutions of the spectral linewidth of fluorescence (FL) signal and Stokes signal generated by the spontaneous four-wave mixing. These evolutions can be controlled by changing the extrinsic parameters (i.e., gate position, gate width, laser power, and detuning) in various phases of europium-doped BPO (Eu3+:BiPO4) as the extrinsic parameters manipulate the ratio of FL and Stokes in the composite signal (FL + Stokes) and select the energy levels. The composite signal contents vary as per the linewidth through the out-of-phase and in-phase k-vectors due to destructive and constructive interferences. The maximum bandwidth contrast we attained was 91% for SCNBF, 49% and 85% for HBF, and 90% and 88% for DCNBF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis B disease is an infection caused by a virus that severely damages the liver. The disease can be both acute and chronic. In this article, we design a new nonlinear SVEICHR model to study dynamics of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) disease. The aim is to carry out a comprehensive mathematical and computational analysis by exploiting preventive measures of vaccination and hospitalization for disease control. Mathematical properties of proposed model such as boundedness, positivity, and existence and uniqueness of the solutions are proved. We also determine the disease free and endemic equilibrium points. To analyze dynamics of HBV disease, we compute a biologically important quantity known as the reproduction number R0 by using next generation method. We also investigate the stability at both of the equilibrium points. To control the spread of disease due to HBV, two feasible optimal control strategies with three different cases are presented. For this, optimal control problem is constructed and Pontryagin maximum principle is applied with a goal to put down the disease in the population. At the end, we present and discuss effective solutions obtained through a MATLAB code. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The environmental-friendly hydrothermal method has been carried out to synthesize Bi2WO6 and g-C3N4/PVP doped Bi2WO6 nanorods (NRs) by incorporating different concentrations of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) as well as a specified quantity of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). Bi2WO6 doped with g-C3N4 provides structural and chemical stability, reduces charge carriers, degrades dyes, and, owing to lower bandgap energy, is effective for antibacterial, catalytic activity, and molecular docking analysis. The purpose of this research is the treatment of polluted water and to investigate the bactericidal behavior of a ternary system. The catalytic degradation was performed to remove the harmful rhodamine B (RhB) dye using NaBH4 in conjunction with prepared NRs. The specimen compound demonstrated antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (E. coli) at both high and low concentrations. Higher doped specimens of g-C3N4/PVP-doped Bi2WO6 exhibited a significant improvement in efficient bactericidal potential against E. coli (4.55 mm inhibition zone). In silico experiments were carried out on enoyl-[acylcarrier-protein] reductase (FabI) and β-lactamase enzyme for E. coli to assess the potential of Bi2WO6, PVP doped Bi2WO6, and g-C3N4/PVP-doped Bi2WO6 NRs as their inhibitors and to justify their possible mechanism of action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an increased trend of drug delivery via skin due to its convenience and affordability. To accomplish this task in a better way and more successfully, nanotechnology has opened the door to transport drugs for the treatment of acute diseases in unique ways. For partially solvable drugs especially, designing new drug transportation systems is always challenging. However, it has been fixed by utilizing nanomaterials as effective carriers for drugs. These carriers allow the controlled and continuous drug release at the specific spotted site and have been successfully manipulated for the creation of innovative drug-delivery systems. These innovative systems are applied to overcome the challenge of reduced water solubility that may improve the drug accessibility, sustained release, and high metabolic stability. The prime emphasis of this review is particularly on the universal routes of drug administration through the skin, limitations of conventional drug delivery systems (DDS), and types and properties of nanomaterials (NMs) used. Recent advancements in NMs such as carbon-based NMs, inorganic-/metal-based NMs, polymeric NMs, and hybrid NMs for drug delivery and their mode of action have been summarized. This review further discusses existing constraints and difficulties that impede the integration of nanomaterials from research to practice, as well as recommendations for more efficient use of nanomaterials in a number of diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The variable sampling interval (VSI) scheme is a well‐known technique for improving the detection ability of control charts (CCs). In the proposed study, measurement error (ME) has been applied to investigate the effectiveness of the Hotelling T2 charting scheme for compositional data (CoDa) using VSI. The current study considered the case of the monitoring phase, assuming that process parameters are known using the continuous times Markov chain model. The evaluation of the proposed scheme has been done using the average time to signal. The authors studied the impact of MEs on the performance of the Hotelling T2 CC for CoDa using VSI, and additionally, the authors also examined the impact of linearly covariate error model parameters on the performance of Hotelling T2 VSI CoDa CC. Six cases for the variance–covariance matrix were used to study the impact of different involved parameters. The effect of ME, sampling interval (SI), powering operator (b), error variance (σM)$\sigma _M)$, and subgroup size (m) has been studied on the performance of proposed CCs by increasing the value of one parameter while keeping the other parameters fixed. The ME and σ have a negative impact on the performance of the proposed CC, while SI, b and m have a positive impact on the performance of the proposed CC. Among all the six cases, the correlated cases (negatively and positively) with equal variance performed better than all the other four cases. In the end, an illustrative example of muesli production with p=3$p=3$ part CoDa (where p is the number of variables in CoDa vector) is provided for the practical implementation of the Hotelling T2 VSI CoDa CC in the presence of ME. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we fabricated graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) nanosheets with embedded ZnCdS nanoparticles to form a type II heterojunction using a facile synthesis approach, and we used them for photocatalytic H2 production. The morphologies, chemical structure, and optical properties of the obtained g-C3N4–ZnCdS samples were characterized by a battery of techniques, such as TEM, XRD, XPS, and UV-Vis DRS. The as-synthesized g-C3N4–ZnCdS photocatalyst exhibited the highest hydrogen production rate of 108.9 μmol·g−1·h−1 compared to the individual components (g-C3N4: 13.5 μmol·g−1·h−1, ZnCdS: 45.3 μmol·g−1·h−1). The improvement of its photocatalytic activity can mainly be attributed to the heterojunction formation and resulting synergistic effect, which provided more channels for charge carrier migration and reduced the recombination of photogenerated electrons and holes. Meanwhile, the g-C3N4–ZnCdS heterojunction catalyst also showed a higher stability over a number of repeated cycles. Our work provides insight into using g-C3N4 and metal sulfide in combination so as to develop low-cost, efficient, visible-light-active hydrogen production photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]